IAI signs deal with Lockheed to produce wings for F-35 jet

Posted by Israel Industries press review of the week on avril 24th, 2013

Israel Aerospace Industries announced Tuesday it had signed a contract with Lockheed Martin to produce the wings for the F-35 stealth fighter jet. IAI will begin delivering the F-35 wings in 2015. The 10- to 15-year contract has a $2.5 billion potential for sales, according to a press release by the company.

« The contract marks a key milestone in the existing cooperation between IAI and Lockheed Martin, » the press release said. Both companies have recently begun assembling the wing’s production line, with IAI investing in the required advanced systems and technologies.

IAI President and CEO Joseph Weiss said: « This agreement represents an important milestone for IAI and ensures its involvement in the world’s most advanced fighter aircraft. I welcome the strengthening relationship with Lockheed Martin, a leading manufacturer of aircraft. »

During the foundation stone ceremony April 22 at IAI headquarters, Yosef Melamed, general manager of IAI’s Lahav Division, said, « IAI has extensive experience and knowledge in producing wings. Our Lahav Wing Production Center produces wings for Lockheed Martin’s F-16 and the U.S. Air Force’s T-38 aircraft. »

« This agreement is another important milestone in the long standing partnership we have with Israel Aerospace Industries, » said Steve O’Bryan, vice president of Lockheed’s F-35 Program Integration and Business Development.

« IAI has been supplying Lockheed Martin with essential components for our platforms for many years, and their participation in the F-35 program is a natural development of this relationship, » O’Bryan said.

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